Intravenous catheter anchoring device

ABSTRACT

An intravenous catheter anchoring assembly is disclosed and includes a patient-contacting membrane, a platform, and a retaining strap for securing a catheter or tubing of an administration set to a patient. The strap is attached to the platform with adjustable pull-tabs that permit a variety of catheter shapes and sizes to be secured. The strap is also elastomeric so that the strap is stretchable and thereby grabs the secured catheter. The strap and platform further define a plurality of passageways that permit the catheter to be secured in a plurality of non-aligned directions.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a divisional of co-pending application Ser. No. 11/306,289,filed Dec. 21, 2005, entitled INTRAVENOUS CATHETER ANCHORING DEVICE,which was filed contemporaneously with Application for U.S. Design Pat.Ser. No. 29/245,311, entitled INTRAVENOUS SITE SECUREMENT DEVICE FORCATHETERS, each of which is hereby expressly incorporated by referencein its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to the field of intravenousinfusion site devices. More specifically, the present invention concernsan intravenous catheter anchoring device for the securement of catheterson various patient sites.

2. Description of the Related Art

Catheters for intravenous infusion into a patient are well known in theart. Such catheters are generally used in a variety of infusionapplications and on a variety of sites. For example, catheters arecommonly used as central venous catheters (“CVC”), midline catheters, orperipherally inserted central catheters (“PICC”). These cathetersnormally are used with some sort of a catheter anchoring device forattaching the catheter to the patient.

One such anchoring device is an intravenous site securement device forpreventing catheter movement. The securement device is important becausecatheter location within the venous system is usually critical. Forexample, a catheter that dispenses medicine to an internal organ oftenmust have its tip positioned in a particular location or the medicinewill not have its intended effect. Moreover, patients with thesecatheters often want or need to have a normal range of body motion whilethe catheter is inserted. Patient movement as well as external objectscan apply external forces to the catheter and thereby shift thecatheter's location within the venous system. These forces can cause, inparticular, back-and-forth dynamic movement of the tip, sometimesreferred to as “pistoning.” These forces can also cause a static shiftin the catheter tip from its original location.

Another type of catheter anchoring device is a tubing collector. Thetubing collector generally serves to secure an excess length of tubingfrom a catheter, intravenous extension set, or intravenousadministration set. Also, some tubing collectors tend to permit axialmovement of the secured tubing. Therefore, people have a need forcatheter anchoring devices that provide reliable catheter securementduring patient movement or while an external force is applied.

Again, anchoring devices are often used with catheters to prevent orrestrict catheter movement. However, these anchoring devices areproblematic and suffer from various undesirable limitations. Onelimitation for site securement devices with tape or sutures holding thecatheter in place is that they tend to start or promote infections atthat location. Furthermore, these securement devices often are able toreceive only one size and shape of catheter hub (e.g., a suture hub,Y-site hub, or luer fitting). One limitation for anchoring devices ingeneral is that catheter attachment is difficult, requiring precise,two-handed manipulation. Anchoring devices are also problematic becausethey can be inadvertently pulled from the skin's surface. Anotherlimitation is that anchoring devices are not adapted for use with avariety of catheter sizes and shapes. Accordingly, there is a need foran improved intravenous catheter anchoring device that does not sufferfrom these problems and limitations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an intravenous catheter anchoring devicethat does not suffer from the problems and limitations of the prior artcatheter anchoring devices detailed above.

In particular, a first aspect of the present invention concerns anintravenous catheter anchoring device for securing a catheter to apatient, wherein the catheter includes a distal section configured to beat least partially inserted into the patient and a proximal section. Thedevice broadly includes a platform configured for removable attachmentto the patient and a retaining strap. The retaining strap cooperateswith the platform to define a catheter-receiving passageway that isconfigured to receive a portion of the catheter with the proximal anddistal sections projecting outwardly therefrom. The retaining strapcomprises an elastomeric body. The body is elastically stretched whenthe catheter portion is received in the passageway such that thecatheter is gripped and thereby axially retained by the device.

A second aspect of the present invention concerns an intravenouscatheter anchoring device for securing a catheter to a patient, whereinthe catheter includes a distal section configured to be at leastpartially inserted into the patient and a proximal section. The devicebroadly includes a platform configured for removable attachment to thepatient and a retaining strap. The platform presents a connector. Theretaining strap cooperates with the platform to define acatheter-receiving passageway configured to receive a portion of thecatheter with the proximal and distal sections projecting outwardlytherefrom. The retaining strap comprises an elongated flexible bodypresenting spaced apart opposite ends, one of which is coupled to theplatform and the other which is removably attached to the connector. Thebody includes a plurality of discrete attachment locations spaced alongthe length of the body, with each of the attachment locations beingreleasably connectable to the connector. The catheter-receivingpassageway presents an adjustable cross-sectional dimension that variesdepending upon which attachment location is connected to the connector.

A third aspect of the present invention concerns an intravenous catheteranchoring device for securing a catheter to a patient, wherein thecatheter includes a distal section configured to be at least partiallyinserted into the patient and a proximal section. The device broadlyincludes a platform configured for removable attachment to the patientand a retaining strap. The retaining strap cooperates with the platformto define a plurality of non-aligned catheter-receiving passageways,each being configured to receive a portion of the catheter with theproximal and distal sections projecting outwardly therefrom. Thepassageways cooperatively provide multiple catheter orientationsrelative to the device. The platform and strap are intercoupled at morethan two coupling locations. The platform and strap cooperatively definea plurality of catheter-receiving openings, each of which is betweenadjacent ones of the coupling locations. Each of the passageways extendsbetween a corresponding pair of catheter-receiving openings.

A fourth aspect of the present invention concerns a method of securing acatheter to a patient. The method broadly includes the steps ofattaching an intravenous catheter anchoring device to the patient, andattaching the catheter to the intravenous catheter anchoring device soas to restrict axial movement of the catheter relative to the device.The step of attaching the catheter to the anchoring devices includes thestep of gripping the catheter with an elastically stretched retainingstrap of the catheter anchoring device.

Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will be apparentfrom the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments andthe accompanying drawing figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described in detail belowwith reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an intravenous infusion site assemblyincluding an intravenous catheter anchoring assembly constructed inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention,particularly showing the anchoring assembly as it secures a multi-lumencatheter with a Y-site suture hub of a central venous catheter to apatient;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the intravenous catheter anchoringassembly depicted in FIG. 1, but showing the assembly as it secures asingle-lumen catheter with a suture hub of a peripherally insertedcentral catheter to the patient's arm;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the intravenous infusion site assemblyshown in FIGS. 1 and 2, particularly showing the securement of acatheter including a catheter suture hub in a transverse directionrelative to the catheter anchoring assembly;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the intravenous infusion site assemblyof FIGS. 1 and 2, particularly showing the securement of the catheterincluding the catheter suture hub in a lengthwise direction relative tothe catheter anchoring assembly;

FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of the intravenous infusion siteassembly shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the intravenous infusion siteassembly shown in FIG. 3, particularly illustrating the patient-contactmembrane, the platform, and the retaining strap;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the intravenous catheter anchoringassembly, showing the platform and particularly the lower surface of theretaining strap;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the intravenouscatheter anchoring assembly showing a first alternative platform;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the intravenouscatheter anchoring assembly showing a second alternative platform;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the intravenouscatheter anchoring assembly showing a first alternative retaining strap;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the intravenouscatheter anchoring assembly showing a second alternative retainingstrap;

FIG. 12 is a top view of a sixth embodiment of the intravenous catheteranchoring assembly, showing a third alternative retaining strap that isH-shaped;

FIG. 13 is a top view of a seventh embodiment of the intravenouscatheter anchoring assembly, showing a fourth alternative retainingstrap that is U-shaped;

FIG. 14 a is a top view of an eighth embodiment of the intravenouscatheter anchoring assembly, showing a fifth alternative retaining strapthat includes non-unitary strap portions secured in a parallelrelationship;

FIG. 14 b is a top view of the intravenous catheter anchoring assemblyshown in FIG. 14, but illustrating the non-unitary strap portionssecured in an overlying relationship;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a ninth embodiment of the intravenouscatheter anchoring assembly, showing a sixth alternative retaining strapand a third alternative platform that are hingedly connected;

FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the intravenous catheteranchoring assembly shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a tenth embodiment of the intravenouscatheter anchoring assembly, showing a seventh alternative retainingstrap and a fourth alternative platform that cooperatively form analternative hinged connection and where the platform includes firstalternative connectors;

FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of the intravenous catheteranchoring assembly shown in FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an eleventh embodiment of theintravenous catheter anchoring assembly, showing an eighth alternativeretaining strap and a fifth alternative platform that cooperatively forman alternative hinged connection and where the platform includes secondalternative connectors;

FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of the intravenous catheteranchoring assembly shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a twelfth embodiment of the intravenouscatheter anchoring assembly, wherein the assembly comprises a tubingcollector;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the intravenous catheter anchoringassembly shown in FIG. 21 with the retaining strap partially detachedfrom the platform and the catheter tubing removed;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a thirteenth embodiment of theintravenous catheter anchoring assembly, similar to that shown in FIGS.21 and 22, but with the platform being alternatively configured;

FIG. 24 is a side view of the intravenous catheter anchoring assemblyshown in FIG. 23, illustrating the retaining strap attached to theplatform to secure tubing therein and the grooved lower surface of theplatform;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of theintravenous catheter anchoring assembly, which comprises a sitesecurement device for securing an alternative catheter;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the intravenous catheter anchoringassembly shown in FIG. 25, with the retaining strap partially detachedand the catheter removed;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a fifteenth embodiment of theintravenous catheter anchoring assembly, which comprises a sitesecurement device for securing a catheter;

FIG. 28 is a side view of the intravenous catheter anchoring assemblyshown in FIG. 27, showing the retaining strap partially attached to theplatform with the catheter positioned therebetween;

The drawing figures do not limit the present invention to the specificembodiments disclosed and described herein. The drawings are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearlyillustrating the principles of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

An intravenous catheter anchoring assembly 10 for use in securing acatheter 12 to a patient P is illustrated in FIG. 1. The catheteranchoring assembly 10 is combined with the catheter 12 to form anintravenous infusion site assembly 14. In the usual manner, the infusionsite assembly 14 is connected to an intravenous administration set (notshown) and enables convenient and repetitive porting to the patient'sinternal venous system for intravenous therapy and generally forintroducing or removing fluids. More specifically, the illustratedcatheter anchoring assembly 10 functions as an intravenous sitesecurement device for removably attaching the catheter 12 to the patientP to prevent localized catheter movement, especially any axial cathetermovement, i.e., “pistoning”.

As will be shown, other catheter anchoring embodiments disclosed hereinfunction primarily as a tubing collector. As previously discussed,tubing collectors generally permit removable attachment of the tubing ofa catheter, an intravenous extension set, or of an intravenousadministration set to the patient P and principally serve to store anexcess length of that tubing (see FIG. 21).

The illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1 specifically shows the infusionsite assembly 14 with the catheter 12 secured to the patient's chest Cas a CVC. However, the catheter 12 may be introduced into a fluid streamother than the blood stream without departing from the scope of thepresent invention. In particular, the illustrated catheter anchoringassembly 10 provides an external mechanism for stabilizing thecatheter's position in various locations on the patient P. For example,FIG. 2 illustrates the catheter anchoring assembly 10 used to secure acatheter 16 on an arm A of the patient P as a PICC. In either case, theillustrated catheter anchoring assembly 10 broadly includes apatient-contacting membrane 18, a platform 20 adhesively attached to themembrane 18, and a retaining strap 22 removably attached to the platform20. As discussed, the catheters 12, 16 permit fluids to be introducedand removed from the patient's venous system.

The catheter 12 includes tubing 24 having an internal bore (not shown)that is also referred to as a lumen. The catheter 12 further includesproximal and distal sections 26, 28 (with “proximal” and “distal”referring to the relative proximity to the intravenous administrationset). The distal section 28 extends into and out of the patient's bodyat a puncture location 30 (sometimes referred to as a venipuncturesite). The distal section 28 also terminates at a Y-site suture hub 32.The proximal sections 26 terminate at the suture hub 32 and at ends 34which are formed by female luer fittings. The proximal sections 26 ofthe CVC catheter 12 each include a single lumen, making the catheter 12a double lumen catheter. The lumens are configured in the usual mannerto carry fluids to and from the patient P. The catheter 12 also includesclamps 36 that occlude the tubing 24 by sealing the lumen and therebyprevent the flow of fluid from one end to the other.

The single lumen catheter 16, as shown in FIGS. 2-6, includes proximaland distal sections 38, 40. The catheter 16 further includes tubing 42with a single lumen 44 that extends into and out of the patient's arm Aand is configured in the usual manner to carry fluids to and from thepatient P. The catheter 16 further includes a suture hub 46 with thetubing 42 extending outwardly therefrom. As shown particularly in FIG.6, the suture hub 46 includes a body 48 and oppositely extendingwing-shaped projections 50. The projections 50 each include a hole 52for securing the suture hub 46 with a suture. The body 48 iscylindrically shaped and includes tapered strain relief sections 54 thatrestrict some bending of the tubing 42 adjacent to the projections 50.The body 48 further includes an annular groove 56 (sometimes referred toas a suture groove).

As shown in FIG. 25, another single lumen catheter 58 includes a distaltubing section 60 which, again carries fluids to and from the patient(not shown). The catheter 58 further includes a female luer fitting 62which mates to an intravenous administration set 64. The intravenousadministration set 64 includes a male luer fitting 66 for mating withthe female fitting 62. These fittings 62, 66 form a separable catheterhub 68. The intravenous administration set 64 further includes aproximal tubing section 70 that terminates at the male fitting 66. Whilethe above described catheters 12, 16, 58 include features that areimportant with respect to some aspects of the invention, it is entirelyconsistent with the principles of the present invention to use othertypes of catheters not depicted with the disclosed embodiments of thecatheter anchoring assembly. Moreover, the present invention is ideallyand advantageously suited for securing a broad range of catheter shapesand sizes.

Turning back to FIGS. 3-6, the patient-contacting membrane 18 ispreferably an adhesive strip that includes a substrate 72. Referring toFIG. 6, the substrate 72 includes ends 74 and recessed sides 76extending longitudinally between the ends 74. The ends 74 each includetwo extended portions 78 and recessed scallops 80 between the pair ofextended portions 78. The shape of the illustrated membrane 18 isintended for ornamental purposes and is the subject of co-pending U.S.Design patent application No. 29/253,412, filed Feb. 6, 2006, entitledADHESIVE PATIENT-CONTACT STRIP FOR INTRAVENOUS CATHETER ANCHORINGDEVICES, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. Theillustrated substrate 72 is a flexible, non-woven tricot fabricpreferably including polyester filaments. However, it is consistent withthe principles of the present invention to use other woven or non-wovenfabrics.

The membrane 18 further includes a first adhesive layer 82 (see FIG. 2)coated over a lower side 84 of the substrate 72. The adhesive layer 82is preferably a pressure-sensitive adhesive (“PSA”) including an acrylicresin material and is suitable for adhering itself to the substrate 72as well as being removably adherent to human skin More preferably, theadhesive layer 82 is provided with the substrate 72 as a pre-assembledadhesive-backed membrane. One preferred adhesive-backed membrane is“Tricot PSA”, sold by Hi-Tech Products, 8530 Roland St., Buena Park,Calif. 90621. The substrate 72 and adhesive layer 82 cooperativelypermit the membrane 18 to be flexible and breathable and is therebysuitable for removable attachment to the skin of patient P. The membrane18 includes a removable release layer (not shown) with tabs. The releaselayer covers the adhesive layer 82 and the tabs permit the release layerto be easily removable from the adhesive layer 82. In this manner, theadhesive layer 82 may be exposed just prior to adhering the membrane 18to the patient's skin.

Turning to FIG. 6, a second adhesive layer 86 is applied to an upperside 88 of the substrate 72. The adhesive layer 86 is preferably anadhesive transfer tape that is suited for bonding fabrics or texturedsurfaces. More preferably, the adhesive layer 86 is an acrylic adhesivetransfer tape, Type 964, manufactured by 3M, Engineered AdhesivesDivision, St. Paul, Minn. 55144-1000. The adhesive layer 86 is aflexible but solid material that is cut to closely follow the shape ofthe platform 20 in order to maximize the bonded surface area between theplatform 20 and the substrate 72. However, it is consistent with theprinciples of the present invention that the adhesive layer 86 could beapplied in a form more similar to a liquid and could be applied bypouring or spraying methods known to those of ordinary skill in the art.The adhesive layers 82,86 and their interaction with the platform 20 andthe membrane 18 are the subject of co-pending U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/457,279, filed Jul. 6, 2006, entitled INTRAVENOUS SECUREMENTDEVICE WITH ADHESIVELY INTERCONNECTED ANCHORING COMPONENT AND PERMEABLEADHESIVE STRIP, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

Referring to FIGS. 3-7, the preferred platform 20 is unitary andincludes a base 90 and connectors 92. The base 90 is shaped like a flatplate and includes upper and lower surfaces 94, 96 and a contoured edge98 (see FIG. 5). The contoured edge 98 is formed with rounded corners100 and recessed scallops 102 between each of the corners 100 (see FIG.6). The upper and lower surfaces 94, 96 are substantially flat and givethe base 90 a uniform thickness. However, as will be discussed in otherembodiments, the base 90 can include alternatively shaped surfaces forreceiving the catheter 16 without departing from the principles of thepresent invention. The base 90 could further have an alternative surfacethat is shaped to closely match the shape of the catheter 16, includingthe catheter hub 46.

The connectors 92 each include a post 104 having a rounded head end 106.As shown particularly in FIG. 5, the head end 106 is preferablyfrusto-spherical in shape, with a spherical portion and a flat 108.Also, the head end 106 is larger in diameter than the post 104.Referring back to FIG. 6, each of the posts 104 have a proximal endopposite from the head end 106 that is attached adjacent a respectivecorner 100 of the base 90. The posts 104 include two pairs that divergeupwardly from the upper surface 94 so that the head ends 106 are spacedapart further than the proximal ends.

The connectors 92 also form primary and secondary attachment sides110,112. A first pair of the connectors 92 extend parallel to each otherin a first lateral direction and are similarly angled relative to thebase 90 so that they cooperatively define a primary attachment side 110of the platform 20. A second pair of the connectors 92 also extendparallel to each other and cooperatively form another primary attachmentside 110. The second pair are also angled relative to the base 90 at anangle similar to the first pair, but extend in an opposite lateraldirection from the first pair. Each of the connectors 92 are spacedapart so that the distance between any two adjacent connectors 92 isabout the same (thus forming the corners of an imaginary square).Therefore, adjacent connectors 92 that extend in opposite lateraldirections from each other cooperatively form secondary attachment sides112 of the platform 20.

In the preferred embodiment, the connectors 92 and base 90 areintegrally injection molded of a relatively hard plastic to create theunitary platform 20. Alternatively, the platform 20 can be molded toinclude a relatively flexible elastomeric insert material (e.g.,silicone). Elastomeric materials generally have a lower modulus ofelasticity than hard plastic materials and also provide surfaces with ahigher coefficient of friction. Therefore, such a material can beincorporated into the platform 20 so that the platform 20 has a surfacethat grips the catheter 16. Specifically, the elastomeric structuregrips the catheter 16 by frictionally engaging and by flexiblyconforming to the catheter 16.

While the use of elastomeric materials, such as silicone, is preferredfor enabling the intravenous catheter anchoring assembly 10 tofrictionally engage the catheter 16, for other aspects of the invention,it is also preferred to treat portions of the elastomer surface so thatit is soft and has a relatively low coefficient of friction. Inparticular, for surfaces that come into contact with the patient's skin,the relatively sticky feel of silicone can be uncomfortable for thepatient. One preferred solution is the application of a Parylene coatingto the silicone (or other substrate) using a vapor deposition process.The process creates a uniform polymer film over the substrate that has arelatively soft feel against the patient's skin and is relatively slick.While the Parylene coating is not preferred for the catheter-grippingsurfaces of the illustrated platform 20, other surfaces could includeParylene, particularly where those surfaces come into direct contactwith the patient P.

Referring again to FIG. 6, the platform 20 is arranged so that the sides110 are spaced adjacent to respective recessed sides 76 of the membrane18. The platform 20 is bonded to the substrate 72 of membrane 18 withthe adhesive layer 86. In particular, the adhesive layer 86 is bonded tothe lower surface 96 and the upper side 88 of the substrate 72. Again,the features of the adhesive layer are further disclosed in the aboveincorporated Application. While the platform 20 is preferably adhered tothe membrane 18, it is also within the ambit of the present inventionthat the platform 20 could be attached to the membrane 18 by othersuitable manufacturing methods such as RF welding, ultrasonic welding,heat staking, or overmolding.

The combined platform 20 and membrane 18 are removably attachable to thepatient's skin as discussed above. The membrane 18 flexes to conform tocurved surfaces in the attachment site. Furthermore, the contoured shapeof the relatively rigid platform 20 permits the platform 20 to remainbonded to the membrane 18 while being closely arranged to the patient'sskin even if it includes significant curvature.

Turning back to FIGS. 3-7, the catheter anchoring assembly 10 includesthe retaining strap 22. The preferred retaining strap 22 is unitary andis generally elongated and flat, although other suitable shapes andconfigurations are within the ambit of the present invention. As will bediscussed in greater detail, the retaining strap 22 is also preferablyflexible and elastomeric (see FIG. 3) to permit frictional engagementwith the catheter 16 and to conform to the shape of the catheter 16.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the retaining strap 22 includes a body 114.The body 114 includes spaced apart opposite attachment ends 116, eachformed by a pair of outwardly extending pull-tabs 118,120, and acentrally located stretch portion 122 between the ends 116. The body 114presents upper and lower surfaces 124,126. The pull-tabs 118 provide agrasping surface for the retaining strap 22 and each provides anattachment location preferably in the form of a through-hole 128 forreceiving a respective one of the connectors 92 as will be discussed. Inthe preferred embodiment, the pull-tabs 120 are adjustable and have anelongated shape to include three attachment locations, each in the formof through-hole 128. The body 114 includes reinforced edges 130(preferably in the form of a raised rib extending about the perimeter)that surround respective holes 128 to enhance structural integrity andprevent tearing of the pull-tabs 118,120. The pull-tabs 118,120 enablegrasping of the retaining strap 22 and further include grasping ribs 132for that purpose. While the illustrated holes 128 are formed inpull-tabs 118,120, the principles of the present invention are alsoapplicable where the holes 128 are formed in another portion of the body114. Furthermore, with regard to certain aspects of the presentinvention, both or neither pair of tabs 118,120 can be provided withmultiple attachment locations (or even only one tab could be providedwith multiple attachment locations). In addition, the retaining strap 22includes recessed scallops 134 between each of the pull-tabs 118,120.

As perhaps best shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the pull-tabs 118,120 and thestretch portion 122 give the retaining strap 22 a variable thickness. Inparticular, the pull-tabs 118,120 are about twice the thickness of thestretch portion 122 with the thickness tapering therebetween. Thus, thestrain varies along the length of the body 114 so that the stretchportion 122 undergoes more elastic strain than the tabs 118,120 when atensile load is applied to the retaining strap 22. Because strain isproportional to deformation, the stretch portion 122 will generallyelastically elongate more than the tabs 118,120. While the body 114 ispreferably formed of a substantially homogeneous material, it is alsoconsistent with the principles of the present invention that the body114 could include alternative materials to give the tabs 118,120 agenerally greater modulus of elasticity than the remainder of the body.Such an alternative construction could involve forming the tabs with arelatively hard plastic material and the stretch portion 122 with anelastomer. In that situation, the stretch portion 122 would againundergo more elastic strain than the tabs 118,120 when a tensile load isapplied. As will be apparent, the greatest degree of elastic stretchingor elongation of the strap 22 occurs within the central portion 122during use which facilitates the desired gripping of the catheter 12 or16.

As discussed, the retaining strap 22 includes a substantiallyhomogeneous material. More preferably, the retaining strap 22 is moldedout of a substantially clear elastomeric silicon-material. Also, theretaining strap 22 is preferably molded in an injection molding process.However, it could also be formed by other molding processes, such asthermoforming, known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

The elastomeric silicon material preferably includes a relatively highcoefficient of friction and exhibits some “stickiness” on at least itscatheter-engaging surfaces. Again, the use of elastomeric materials ispreferred for enabling the intravenous catheter anchoring assembly 10 tofrictionally engage the catheter 16. However, it is also preferred tocoat portions of the elastomer surface of the retaining strap 22 withParylene so that it is soft and has a relatively low coefficient offriction. For example, the outer, non-catheter-engaging surfaces of theretaining strap 22 are preferably coated so as to be soft andcomfortable to the touch. Again, the Parylene coating is not preferredfor the catheter-gripping surfaces of the illustrated retaining strap22.

Turning to FIGS. 4, 5, and 7, the retaining strap 22 is initiallyattached to the platform 20 by preferably receiving two connectors 92 onone of the platform's sides 110 within respective pull-tabs 118. Therounded end 106 of post 104 is larger in diameter than the hole 128.Therefore, the elastic pull-tab 118 stretches outwardly so as to passover end 106 and then be received on the post 104. The undersized hole128 and rounded end 106 further restrict the pull-tab 118 from becomingunintentionally removed from the attached position. However, the flat108 permits easier attachment and removal of the retaining strap 22 whenthe retaining strap is in a substantially upright orientation.

While the illustrated platform 20 includes the post 104 and thecorresponding hole 128 is in the retaining strap 22, the platform 20 andretaining strap 22 could be variously configured to achieve a similarconnecting mechanism without departing from the scope of the presentinvention. For example, either the platform 20 or retaining strap 22could include one or more engageable posts, hooks, barbs, balls or othermale projections. The other corresponding platform 20 or retaining strap22 could then include corresponding holes, slots, sockets, or otherfemale ends to achieve a removable connection with the respective maleprojections. Alternatively, the platform 20 or retaining strap 22 couldeach include a combination of male and female connectors consistent withthe scope of the present invention.

Moreover, it is within the ambit of the present invention that theplatform 20 and retaining strap 22 could be permanently attached to eachother. For example, one or both ends 116 of the retaining strap 22 couldbe molded with, over-molded to, adhered to, or otherwise non-removably(e.g., integrally) fixed to the platform 20. The term “coupled” as usedherein shall be interpreted to mean permanently attached, as discussed,or removably attached.

In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining strap 22 is fully securedto the platform 20 by lowering the pull-tabs 120 (causing the body 114to flex) so that the remaining two connectors 92 can be received withintwo of the holes 128. The upwardly and outwardly angled posts 104restrict the retaining strap 22 from moving out of the attachedposition, as the strap 22 would have to be stretched to a greater extentto do so. Again, each of the pull-tabs 120 includes a plurality of holes128 for selective attachment to the connectors 92. Generally, each ofthe pull-tabs 120 can be attached to its respective connector 92 at thesame time along any one of the holes 128. Thus, the retaining strap 22is variously adjustable. Additionally, because the connectors 92 areabout evenly spaced as discussed above, the retaining strap 22 isattachable to the platform 20 in any of four discrete orientationsrelative to the platform 20.

The elastomeric retaining strap 22 preferably includes a lower modulusof elasticity than the platform 20, making the retaining strap 22 lessrigid than the platform 20. Therefore, when the retaining strap 22 isattached between connectors 92 under tension, the retaining strap 22elongates while the platform 20 deflects negligibly. In this manner, theplatform substantially retains its shape when the body is elasticallystretched to receive the catheter 16.

Turning to FIGS. 3-4, the attached retaining strap 22 and platform 20form internal passageways 136 for receiving the catheter 16 so that theproximal and distal sections 38,40 project outwardly from the catheteranchoring assembly 10. The passageways 136 are defined by internalsurfaces that receive and hold the catheter 16. Specifically, the uppersurface 94 of platform 20, the connectors 92, and the lower surface 126of retaining strap 22 provide these internal surfaces. Furthermore, theedges of these surfaces collectively form four discretecatheter-receiving openings 138. Each of the passageways 136 is definedby a respective pair of openings 138 and the internal surfaces. However,it is also consistent with the principles of the present invention forthe passageways 136 to be defined by more than two openings 138. Forexample, a multi-lumen catheter may extend through three or moreopenings. In this manner, the passageways 136, although occupying thesame volume, each provide a discrete path into and out of the catheteranchoring assembly 10. While the preferred embodiment includes fouropenings 138 and associated passageways 136, the principles of thepresent invention are equally applicable to including a greater orlesser number of openings 138 which are preferably and cooperativelydefined by the platform 20 and strap 22.

The passageways 136 are also adjustably sized and shaped due to theadjustable and elastic features of the retaining strap 22. Morespecifically, the passageways 136 have an adjustable cross-sectionaldimension D (see FIG. 4). The illustrated dimension D is the maximuminternal height between the platform 20 and the retaining strap 22.However, the passageways 136 include other adjustable cross-sectionaldimensions (not shown) between the retaining strap 22 and the platform20. The dimension D varies depending on which of the three holes 128 inpull-tabs 120 receive the respective connector 92. The dimension D alsovaries depending on the size and shape of the received catheter 16.

The catheter anchoring assembly 10 secures the catheters 12, 16 as shownin FIGS. 1-5. In FIG. 1, the catheter 12 is secured by arranging theY-site suture hub 26 between the platform 20 and the retaining strap 22.In FIGS. 2 and 3, the catheter 16 is aligned substantially orthogonallyto the longitudinal axis of the membrane 18 and platform 20. Asdiscussed, the retaining strap 22 is partially attached to the platform20 with connectors 92 being received in holes 128 of the tabs 118. Mostpreferably, an edge of the retaining strap 22 is received within theannular groove 56 to further restrict axial movement of the catheter 16.

The pull-tabs 120 are then secured to the remaining connectors 92 bystretching the retaining strap 22 over the suture hub 46. The platform20 and strap 22 are preferably configured and dimensioned so that thestrap 22 is elastically stretched when the catheter is secured betweenthe platform 20 and strap 22, whereby the catheter 16 is gripped andaxially retained. The suture hub 46 is arranged between the platform 20and retaining strap 22 with the tubing 42 extending through oppositelyspaced openings 138 and across the primary attachment sides 110.Furthermore, projections 50 are received respectively in the remainingoppositely spaced openings 138. Again, the fully attached retainingstrap 22 is preferably elastically elongated and under tension to forcethe catheter 16 against the platform 20. This elongation furtherpromotes the gripping ability of the retaining strap 22 by increasingthe frictional engagement between the retaining strap 22 and catheter16. Elongation and stretching around the catheter 16 also promotesgripping in that the retaining strap 22 conforms more closely to thecontours of the catheter 16. The illustrated retaining strap 22 andplatform 20 grip the catheter 16 to restrict movement along thecatheter's axial direction but also along a transverse or verticaldirection. Moreover, the catheter 12 is substantially restricted fromrotating in any direction. However, it is consistent with certainaspects of the present invention that the retaining strap 22 could beattached to retain the catheter 16 without being elongated or otherwiseelastically stretched.

Referring to FIG. 4, the illustrated catheter 16 is aligned with thelongitudinal axis of the membrane 18 and platform 20 in an alternativeand orthogonal orientation relative to the orientation of the catheter16 shown in FIG. 3. Again, the retaining strap 22 is stretched aroundthe suture hub 46 and grips the catheter 16. The tubing 42 extendsthrough a pair of oppositely spaced openings 138, but across thesecondary attachment sides 112. Projections 50 are received in theremaining oppositely spaced openings 138. Therefore, the catheter 16 ispermitted to be secured in any of four discrete orientations withrespect to the platform 20. The selectable orientations permit themembrane 18 and platform 20 to be variously arranged on patient P foroptimizing the patient's comfort or the adhering strength between themembrane 18 and the patient's skin with minimal effect on the desiredcatheter orientation.

In operation, the catheter 16 is inserted into the patient P (see FIG.2) and then arranged relative to the patient's arm A. Although theillustrated catheter 16 is shown in association with the patient's arm,other peripheral locations (e.g., the leg, foot, etc.) are entirelywithin the ambit of the present invention. The proximal section 26extends toward and connects to an intravenous fluid administration set(not shown). The catheter anchoring assembly 10 is arranged under thecatheter 16 in the desired orientation. Once positioned, the catheteranchoring assembly 10 is adhered to the patient's skin adjacent to thepuncture location 30. Obviously, one important advantage of the assembly10 is the ability to securely fix the catheter 16 to the patient withoutrequiring the use of sutures, which significantly increase patientdiscomfort and the risk of infection. The catheter 16 extends across theplatform 20 with the projections 50 spaced between the connectors 92.The retaining strap 22 is initially attached to the platform 20 so thatthe retaining strap 22 secures the catheter 16 between two of theconnectors 92. The retaining strap 22 is then elastically stretchedacross the platform 20 and secured to the remaining connectors 92. Thus,the catheter 16 is secured so that the tubing 42 is secured in twooppositely spaced openings 138 and the projections 50 are secured in theother two oppositely spaced openings 138.

The elongated pull-tabs 120 can be re-attached to the connectors 92 tochange the amount of elastic elongation in the retaining strap. In thismanner, the catheter 16 can be more tightly or loosely secured. Suchreattachment not only permits the catheter-receiving passageway to beadjustably sizeable, but with the elastic nature and stretching of thestrap 22, the gripping force applied against the catheter 16 can bevaried. The pull-tabs 118,120 can be released to permit removal of thecatheter 16 from the catheter anchoring assembly 10.

Turning to FIGS. 8-26, alternative embodiments of the present inventionare depicted. For the sake of brevity, the remaining description willfocus primarily on the differences of these alternative embodiments fromthe preferred embodiment.

FIGS. 8-9 illustrate two alternative embodiments of the presentinvention. These alternative embodiments are directed to alternativeplatforms having an alternatively shaped base as will be discussed.

In FIG. 8, a second embodiment of the present invention is anintravenous catheter anchoring assembly 200 including an alternativeplatform 202. The platform 202 includes a base 204 presenting an uppersurface 206 and connectors 208. The base 204 further includes rib-likeprotrusions 210 forming part of the upper surface 206. The protrusions210 are parallel to each other and extend between primary attachmentsides 212 of the platform 202 for securing the catheter (not shown)therebetween. The protrusions 210 are preferably molded with the rest ofthe base 204, but could alternatively be machined or separately formedand then attached without departing from the principles of the presentinvention.

In FIG. 9, a third embodiment of the present invention is an intravenouscatheter anchoring assembly 300 including an alternative platform 302.The platform 302 includes a base 304 presenting an upper surface 306 andconnectors 308. The base 304 further includes a concave depression 310defining a curvilinear portion of the upper surface 306. The shape ofthe depression 310 is preferably configured to receive the catheter hub(not shown). While the illustrated depression 310 is shaped to receive avariety of catheter hubs, the depression 310 could be alternativelyshaped to receive a particular catheter hub so that the depression 310is form-fitting. The depression 310 is preferably molded with the restof the base 304 but could also be machined or separately formed and thenattached to the upper surface 306.

FIGS. 10-14 illustrate several alternative embodiments of the presentinvention. These alternative embodiments are directed to anchoringassemblies incorporating alternative retaining straps.

In FIG. 10, a fourth embodiment of the present invention is anintravenous catheter anchoring assembly 400 including an alternativeretaining strap 402. The retaining strap 402 comprises a body 404including pull-tabs 406 and presenting upper and lower surfaces 408,410.The body 404 further includes a spherical protrusion 412 forming part ofthe lower surface 410. The protrusion 412 is shaped to press against thecatheter hub (not shown) when the retaining strap 402 is coupled to theplatform (not shown). The protrusion 412 is preferably compressible tothe extent that it is compressed during use of the assembly 400, wherebygripping of the catheter is further enhanced.

In FIG. 11, a fifth embodiment of the present invention is anintravenous catheter anchoring assembly 500 including an alternativeretaining strap 502. The retaining strap 502 comprises a body 504including pull-tabs 506 and presenting upper and lower surfaces 508,510.The body 504 further includes rib-shaped protrusions 512 that areparallel to each other. The protrusions 512 form part of the lowersurface 510 for receiving the catheter (not shown). Moreover, theprotrusions 512 preferably function similar to the protrusion 412 shownin FIG. 10.

In FIG. 12, a sixth embodiment of the present invention is anintravenous catheter anchoring assembly 600 including an alternativeretaining strap 602 and a platform 604. The retaining strap 602comprises a body 606 including pull-tabs 608. The body 606 has agenerally H-shaped configuration with all of the pull-tabs 608 beinggenerally elongated. The retaining strap 602 cooperates with theplatform 604 to form a first pair of substantially identicalcatheter-receiving openings 610 and a generally transverse second pairof substantially identical catheter-receiving openings 612. A catheter614 includes a catheter hub 616 with a body 618 and projections 620. Theillustrated openings 610,612 receive ends of the body 618 andprojections 620 respectively. However, the openings 610,612 permit thecatheter 614 to be secured in one of four discrete orientations.

In FIG. 13, a seventh embodiment of the present invention comprises anintravenous catheter anchoring assembly 700 including an alternativeretaining strap 702 and a platform 704. The retaining strap 702comprises a body 706 including pull-tabs 708,710. The body 706 has agenerally U-shaped configuration. The retaining strap 702 cooperateswith the platform 704 to provide openings 712 and correspondingpassageways through which a catheter 714 is received.

In FIGS. 14 a and 14 b, an eighth embodiment of the present invention isan intravenous catheter anchoring assembly 800 including an alternativeretaining strap 802 and platform 804. The retaining strap 802 includesnon-unitary strap portions 806, where each of the elongated portions 806comprises a body 808 including pull-tabs 810. As depicted in FIG. 14 a,the portions 806 are attached to the platform 804 in a substantiallyparallel relationship so that four catheter-receiving openings 812 areformed between the, platform 804 and retaining strap 802, each openingextending along a corresponding side of one of the strap portions 806.The strap portions 806 essentially define two passageways, with thecatheter 814 preferably being received in both passagewayssimultaneously. The catheter 814 includes wings 816 that are notreceived in the passageways. As depicted in FIG. 14 b, the portions 806are attached to the platform 804 in a crossing (X-shaped) relationshipso that four catheter-receiving openings 812 are formed and define aplurality of passageways. The openings 812 are generally V-shaped inplan view. The catheter 814 and catheter wings 816 are received withinthe passageways.

FIGS. 15-20 illustrate several alternative embodiments of the presentinvention. These embodiments are directed to alternative platform andretaining strap combinations.

Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, a ninth embodiment of the presentinvention is an intravenous catheter anchoring assembly 900 including analternative platform 902 and an alternative retaining strap 904. Theplatform 902 includes a base 906, connectors 908,910, and pin 912. Thebase 906 is flat and generally rectangular-shaped with straight edges914 and scalloped edges 916. Along one of the straight edges 914,connectors 908 extend out and include a post 918 with a spherical end920. The post 918 is curved and extends upwardly and outwardly from thebase 906. Along the other straight edge 914, connectors 910 extendlaterally out from the base 906 and include aligned holes 922. The holes922 rotatably receive the pin 912.

The U-shaped retaining strap 904 includes a body 924 presenting anattachment end 926 and pull-tabs 928. The attachment end 926 includes abore 930 that receives the pin 912. In this manner, the retaining strap904 and platform 902 are partially attached to each other by a hinge.The pin 912 is preferably rotates relative to the retaining strap 904when the strap 904 and platform 902 are assembled. However, it is alsoconsistent with the principles of the present invention for the pin 912to rotate relative to either or both the strap 904 and platform 902. Theretaining strap 904 is further attached to the platform 902 by securingthe connectors 908 within respective holes 932 of the pull-tabs 928.Although not shown, each of the tabs 928 can be provided with multipleholes 932 to afford the adjustability noted above.

Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, a tenth embodiment of the presentinvention concerns an intravenous catheter anchoring assembly 1000including an alternative platform 1002 and an alternative retainingstrap 1004. The platform 1002 includes a base 1006 and connectors 1008,1010. Connectors 1008 include recessed hooks 1012 projecting laterallyfrom the base 1006 and turning downward. Connectors 1010 projectupwardly and outwardly from the base 1006 and include a post 1014 withan enlarged spherical head 1016. The U-shaped retaining strap 1004comprises a body 1018 presenting an attachment end 1020 and pull-tabs1022. The attachment end 1020 includes slotted holes 1024 that eachreceive a respective one of the hooks 1012. Each pull-tab 1022 includesa pair of rounded holes 1026 that are undersized relative to thespherical head 1016.

Turning to FIGS. 19 and 20, an eleventh embodiment of the presentinvention comprises an intravenous catheter anchoring assembly 1100including an alternative platform 1102 and an alternative retainingstrap 1104, which are similar to that shown in FIGS. 17 and 18. Theplatform 1102 includes a base 1106 and connectors 1108, 1110. Connectors1108 include recessed hooks 1112 projecting laterally from the base1106. Connectors 1110 project upwardly and outwardly from the base 1106and include a post 1114 having a rectangular cross-section. Therectangular-shaped retaining strap 1104 comprises a body 1116 includingan attachment end 1118 and a single pull-tab 1120. The attachment end1118 and pull-tab 1120 include slotted holes 1122 that each receive arespective one of the connectors 1110. The body 1116 is generally solidand rectangular in shape, such that discrete pull-tabs are not defined.

FIGS. 21-24 illustrate two alternative embodiments of the presentinvention. These embodiments principally perform the function of atubing collector, but they also have features which restrict axialmovement of the tubing, such that they might also serve as sitesecurement devices.

In FIGS. 21 and 22, a twelfth embodiment of the present inventionconcerns an intravenous catheter anchoring assembly 1200 including analternative platform 1202 and an alternative retaining strap 1204. Theplatform 1202 includes an elongated base 1206 with ends 1208. Theplatform 1202 further includes connectors 1210 extending from the ends1208. Between the ends 1208 are arcuate troughs 1212 that have asemi-circular cross-section. The troughs 1212 are substantially paralleland are separated by ridges 1214. The arcuate troughs 1212 runorthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the base 1206. The troughs 1212and ridges 1214 form part of an upper surface 1216 that providesdiscrete locations for receiving tubing 1218 (see FIG. 21). Theillustrated tubing 1218 is part of an intravenous administration set1220. However, it is consistent with the principles of the presentinvention that the tubing 1218 could be part of an extension set orcould be catheter tubing.

The retaining strap 1204 comprises a body 1222 with pull tabs 1224, astretch portion 1226, and through-holes 1228. The tubing 1218 ispreferably arranged in a serpentine pattern such that each trough 1212receives a section of the tubing 1218. The strap 1204 is then stretchedover the arranged tubing 1218 to hold the tubing 1218 within the troughs1212 and thereby restrict movement out of the troughs 1212 and axialmovement through the troughs 1212.

In FIGS. 23 and 24, a thirteenth embodiment of the present inventioncomprises an intravenous catheter anchoring assembly 1300 including analternative platform 1302 and a retaining strap 1304, which are similarto that shown in FIGS. 21 and 22. The platform 1302 includes a base 1306with ends 1308. Between the ends 1308 are arcuate troughs 1310 separatedby ridges 1312. The troughs 1310 each have a substantially semi-circularcross-section (preferably defined by an arc of about 180°) and include amaximum width. However, the principles of the present invention areequally applicable to a trough cross-section that is smaller or largerthan 180°. A longitudinal ridge 1314 runs between the ends 1308 and overthe ridges 1312 to form catches 1316 on each side of each trough 1310that project radially inward relative to the arc.

The illustrated catches 1316 cooperate with the troughs 1310 to defineundercut sides and restricted openings 1318 that are smaller in widththan the trough's maximum width and undersized relative to the diameterof tubing 1320 (see FIG. 24). In this manner, the troughs 1310, ridges1312, and catches 1316 form an upper surface 1322 of the platform 1302for receiving catheter tubing 1320 and releasably retaining the tubing1320 within the troughs 1310. In particular, the catches 1316 permitvarious sizes of tubing 1320 to be partially secured in the catheteranchoring assembly 1300 prior to completed attachment of the retainingstrap 1304. This enables the patient to single-handedly secure thetubing 1320 by attaching the retaining strap 1304 without having tosimultaneously hold the tubing 1320 in place. In essence the tubing 1320is “snapped” into the troughs 1310 with the catches 1316 slightlydeforming the tubing 1320 and thereby gripping it in place. Suchgripping further restricts axial movement of the tubing. The principlesof the present invention are also applicable to other trough shapes thatprovide restricted openings, such as a trough cross-section with acircular arc of greater than 180° or a non-circular shape with anopening smaller than its maximum width.

The platform 1302 further includes a lower surface 1324. The base 1306includes a plurality of parallel grooves 1326 extending between sides ofthe platform 1302. The grooves 1326 have undercut sides 1328 (similar toa dove-tail cross-section) to form a narrow opening 1330 and a slightlywider base 1332. The grooves 1326 increase the base's surface area topromote adhesion to the flexible membrane (not shown). The shape of thegrooves 1326 also permit adhesive to be received therein such that theadhesive layer is mechanically and adhesively attached to the platform1302.

In FIGS. 25 and 26, a fourteenth embodiment of the present inventioncomprises an intravenous catheter site securement device 1400specifically designed for securing the alternative catheter 44. Thecatheter anchoring assembly 1400 includes an alterative platform 1402and a retaining strap 1404. The platform 1402 includes a base 1406 withends 1408. The base includes, between the ends 1408, an arcuate trough1410, spaced apart ridges 1412, and a stop 1414 located at one end ofthe trough 1410. The base 1406 includes an upper surface 1416. Thetrough 1410 forms an inclined section 1418 of the upper surface 1416.

The platform 1402 and retaining strap 1404 receive the catheter hub 48and secure it within the trough 1410 so that it is inclined toward thestop 1416. In this mariner, the strap which is preferably elasticallystretched urges the hub 48 against the inclined trough 1410 downwardlytoward and against the stop 1416. Thus, the stop 1416 resists axialmovement of the catheter 44 beyond the stop 1416, and the inclinedtrough resists axial movement of the catheter 44 away from the stop1416. The restricted axial movement also restricts pistoning of thecatheter 44.

FIGS. 27-28 illustrate a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention.The alternative embodiment functions primarily as an intravenous sitesecurement device. However, the principles of this embodiment areequally applicable to other intravenous anchoring devices such as tubingcollectors.

In FIG. 27, an intravenous catheter anchoring assembly 1500 includes aplatform 1502, a patient-contacting membrane 1504, and an alternativeretaining strap 1506 for securing the catheter 1508 (see FIG. 28). Theplatform 1502 includes a base 1510 and connectors 1512 and furtherpresents an upper surface 1514. The connectors 1512 include a post 1516with a head end 1518.

The retaining strap 1506 includes a body 1520. The body 1520 includesattachment ends 1522 with pull-tabs 1524, 1526. The body 1520 furtherincludes a centrally located stretch portion 1528 between the ends 1522and presents upper and lower surfaces 1530, 1532. The body 1520 alsoincludes attachment locations with through-holes 1534 and reinforcedribs 1536 surrounding the holes 1534. Pull-tabs 1524 each include asingle hole 1534, and pull-tabs 1526 each include two holes 1534 foradjustment purposes. The ribs 1536 extend from the upper surface 1530and include a deflecting surface 1538 that tapers inwardly as it extendsfrom the upper surface 1530. Thus, the deflecting surface 1538 forms aconical frustum (i.e., has a frusto-conical shape). The ribs 1536 arealso shaped to provide a countersunk portion 1540 of the holes 1534.

The retaining strap 1506 is attached to the platform 1502 by extendingthe posts 1516 through respective holes 1534. As discussed, pull-tabs1526 each include two holes 1534 so that the retaining strap 1506 may beadjustably positioned relative to the platform 1502. The countersunkportion 1540 permits the head end 1518 to be received therein withoutstretching the ribs 1536 outward. The deflecting surface 1538 extendsinward with the uppermost end surrounding the head end 1518. Thus, thedeflecting surface 1538 reduces the risk of catching or snagging ofexternal objects (e.g., clothing) by inadvertent contact with the ribs1536 or connectors 1512. The principles of the present invention areapplicable to raised ribs with alternative shapes that guard againstaccidental snagging of the anchoring assembly 1500.

The preferred forms of the invention described above are to be used asillustration only, and should not be utilized in a limiting sense ininterpreting the scope of the present invention. Obvious modificationsto the exemplary embodiments, as hereinabove set forth, could be readilymade by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit ofthe present invention.

The inventors hereby state their intent to rely on the Doctrine ofEquivalents to determine and assess the reasonably fair scope of thepresent invention as pertains to any apparatus not materially departingfrom but outside the literal scope of the invention as set forth in thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An intravenous catheter anchoring device forsecuring a catheter to a patient, wherein the catheter includes a distalsection configured to be at least partially inserted into the patientand a proximal section, said device comprising: a platform including abase and a plurality of connectors, said base forming at least part ofan internal surface, said internal surface including a trough to receivesaid catheter; and a retaining strap cooperating with said internalsurface of said platform to define a catheter-receiving passagewayconfigured to receive a portion of said catheter with said proximal anddistal sections projecting outwardly therefrom, said retaining strapcomprising an elastomeric body, said body including spaced apartpull-tabs each being removably attached to a corresponding one of saidconnectors, with said body being elastically stretched when saidcatheter portion is received in said passageway wherein said catheter isgripped and thereby axially retained by said device.
 2. The intravenouscatheter anchoring device as in claim 1, wherein said retaining strap isless rigid than said platform, so that said platform substantiallyretains its shape when said elastomeric body is elastically stretched toreceive said catheter in said passageway.
 3. The intravenous catheteranchoring device as in claim 1, wherein said retaining strap is formedof a first material and said platform being formed of second material,said first material having greater elasticity than said second material.4. The intravenous catheter anchoring device as in claim 1, wherein saidelastomeric body is configured so that strain varies along the lengththereof when said body is elastically stretched.
 5. The intravenouscatheter anchoring device as in claim 1, wherein said elastomeric bodyincludes a stretch portion and a pull-tab, said elastomeric body beingconfigured so that said stretch portion undergoes greater strain thansaid pull-tab when said body is elastically stretched.
 6. Theintravenous catheter anchoring device as in claim 5, wherein saidstretch portion is centrally located to partially define saidcatheter-receiving passageway, said pull-tab being removably attached tosaid platform.
 7. The intravenous catheter anchoring device as in claim1, wherein said trough has an arcuate shape and forms at least part ofsaid internal surface.
 8. The intravenous catheter anchoring device asin claim 7, wherein said arcuate trough includes opposite ends, saidarcuate trough sloping downwardly toward one of said ends thereof. 9.The intravenous catheter anchoring device as in claim 8, wherein saidbase comprises a stop adjacent said one of said ends so as to resistaxial movement of said catheter along said trough in the direction ofsaid stop.
 10. The intravenous catheter anchoring device as in claim 1,wherein said trough is configured to extend at least partly around saidcatheter.
 11. The intravenous catheter anchoring device as in claim 1,wherein said trough has a maximum cross-sectional dimension, and whereinsaid base includes a tubing catch projecting inwardly relative to saidmaximum cross-sectional dimension so as to releasably retain saidcatheter within said trough.
 12. The intravenous catheter anchoringdevice as in claim 11, wherein said trough has an arcuatecross-sectional shape, and wherein said trough extends about an arcequal to or less than about 180 degrees, said tubing catch extendingradially inward relative to said arc.
 13. The intravenous catheteranchoring device as in claim 11, wherein said base includes a pluralityof troughs and tubing catches.
 14. An intravenous catheter anchoringdevice for securing a catheter to a patient, wherein said catheterincludes a distal section configured to be at least partially insertedinto said patient and a proximal section, said device comprising: aplatform configured for removable attachment to said patient, saidplatform having a base and a connector, said base forming at least partof an internal surface, said internal surface including a trough toreceive said catheter; and a retaining strap cooperating with saidplatform to define a catheter-receiving passageway configured to receivea portion of said catheter with said proximal and distal sectionsprojecting outwardly therefrom, said retaining strap comprising anelongated flexible body having spaced apart opposite ends, one of whichis coupled to said platform and the other which is removably attached tosaid connector, said flexible body including a plurality of discreteattachment locations spaced along the length of said flexible body, witheach of said attachment locations being releasably connectable to saidconnector, said catheter-receiving passageway having an adjustablecross-sectional dimension that varies depending upon which attachmentlocation is connected to said connector.
 15. The intravenous catheteranchoring device as in claim 14, wherein said trough has an arcuateshape.
 16. The intravenous catheter anchoring device as claim 15,wherein said arcuate trough includes opposite ends, said arcuate troughsloping downwardly toward one of said ends thereof, with said baseincluding a stop adjacent said one of said ends so as to resist axialmovement of said catheter along said trough in the direction of saidstop.
 17. The intravenous catheter anchoring device as in claim 14,wherein said trough is configured to extend at least partly around saidcatheter, and wherein said trough has a maximum cross-sectionaldimension, said base including a tubing catch projecting inwardlyrelative to said maximum cross-sectional dimension so as to releasablyretain said catheter within said trough.
 18. The intravenous catheteranchoring device as in claim 17, wherein said trough has an arcuatecross-sectional shape extends about an arc equal to or less than about180 degrees, said tubing catch extending radially inward relative tosaid arc.
 19. An intravenous catheter anchoring device for securing acatheter to a patient, wherein said catheter includes a distal sectionconfigured to be at least partially inserted into said patient and aproximal section, said device comprising: a platform including a baseand a plurality of connectors, said base forming at least part of aninternal surface, said internal surface including a trough to receivesaid catheter; and a retaining strap cooperating with said plurality ofconnectors to define a plurality of non-aligned catheter-receivingpassageways, each being configured to receive a portion of said catheterwith said proximal and distal sections projecting outwardly therefrom,said passageways cooperatively providing multiple catheter orientationsrelative to said device, said platform and strap being intercoupled atleast at more than two coupling locations, said platform and strapcooperatively defining a plurality of catheter-receiving openings, eachof which is between adjacent ones of said coupling locations, each ofsaid passageways extending between a corresponding pair ofcatheter-receiving openings.
 20. The intravenous catheter anchoringdevice as in claim 19, wherein said trough forms a portion of saidcatheter-receiving passageways.